Category Archives: Uncategorized

Uncategorized

BACK TO SCHOOL- HOPEFULLY, WITHOUT THE H1N1 BUG!

The federal government is advising school leaders they shouldn’t have to close their doors this fall because a few students contract this new virus, which continues to spread throughout the world.  Only those schools with high numbers of students coming down with the virus should consider closing, according to a statement Janet Napolitano, Homeland Security Secretary made today (August 7th).

There are more than 55 million American children attending 130,000 public and private schools.  According to the Department of Education, 7 million persons staff those schools.

It is predicted that the new “bug” will hit schools in the fall; however, Education Secretary Arne Duncan stated the importance of continuing to educate the children, and urges parents to use common sense and tell their kids to wash their hands vigorously several times a day, and take other precautions.  He also said that the new vaccine should be ready by mid-October and schools will probably be the principal sites for the shots to be given to students.  Everyone should get the regular flu shot prior to this time.

The Centers for Disease Control last spring advised schools to close for two weeks when there were confirmed cases of the H1N1 virus.  However, the milder cases experienced by students caused them to re-think their strategy.  They do recommend that parents keep their sick students home for at least one week, if they become ill.  As the result of the spring school closings, many parents were forced to leave their kids at home alone, take off work to stay with their children, or make child care arrangements.

Schools should be planning other ways to prevent the spread of illness by placing students’ desks further apart, emphasizing hand hygiene, and any method they can come up with to encourage their students to avoid contact with someone who is ill.  Mr. Duncan is asking schools to have a plan to keep their kids learning during the period their school is closed.

Sources:
AP
Reuters

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

WOULD IT MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

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You know the saying “Hindsight is 20-20”; we always think of things that might have made a difference after the fact.  Recently, a young man drowned in a local lake after falling from a boat and getting hit by a wake board.  After searching for several hours, his body was located, and he was not wearing a life jacket. (One of the rescue workers said they had never pulled anyone out of this particular lake that was wearing a life jacket.)  Without knowing exactly what caused this terrible accident, this tragedy should be a wake up call for all of us to take safety precautions on the water more seriously.

Children must wear life jackets!  Most state laws require that every other person onboard should have access to a life jacket. So, that’s normally the way it goes: the life jacket is on the floor beneath the person, or somewhere within reach.  But if the jacket is not being worn, how is it going to help?  Even if we are strong swimmers, there could be circumstances that cause us to be rendered unconscious if we fell out of a boat.  A rescue worker commented that even though wearing a life jacket is uncomfortable, it’s well worth the inconvenience when it saves someone’s life.

Just a month ago, we posted a boating article which ended with this:

“Things to remember: (1) Wear life jackets – they save lives! (2) Have that designated driver!  (3) Have a safe boat – it can save your life! (4) Be sure to take along sunscreen, and (5) have a first aid kit on your boat.”

So, YES, there are many things that can make a difference when it comes to water safety:

  • WEAR A LIFE JACKET!
  • DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE A BOAT!
  • PAY ATTENTION TO ALL PASSENGERS
  • LAKE WATER AND BOOZE JUST DON’T MIX!
  • DON’T DRIVE BOATS NEAR SWIMMING AREAS
  • COURTESY SHOULD BE EXTENDED TO AND BY JET-SKIERS

We have several more weeks of warm weather and there’s nothing more fun than going to the lake to do some skiing, fishing, camping, and just having all-around fun.  Hundreds of people will be heading to lakes to celebrate the Labor Day holiday.  Don’t let the dog days of summer end in tragedy by disregarding safe practices around water.

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

HERE’S A GREAT TEEN DRIVING SAFETY PROGRAM!

We want to introduce you to the “Teens in the Driver Seat” program, implemented in Texas following the graduated drivers license (GDL) law passed in 2002.  In a recent study the number of fatal crashes per 10,000 teen drivers fell by 33%, compared with federal data from 36 other states that have the GDL law over a period of 5 years.

The fact that the reduction in fatal crashes in Texas is unique is that the state has two obstacles to overcome when it comes to the law and teenage drivers: (1) they are not required to pass an on-road driving test, and (2) parent-taught drivers education is allowed.  Other methods of driver education are preferable than young drivers being taught only by their parents.

“Teens in the Drivers Seat” is a public-awareness program based at Texas A&M University.

So far, this campaign has been in 300 schools and reached more than 250,000 students statewide.  Everyone knows that teenagers listen to their peers far more than adults.  In TDS, students develop the messages and are the messengers.  An example: in one school, an obstacle course was set up in the hallway, and students sent text messages while rolling through the course in a chair, demonstrating how texting while driving causes distractions.  Many teen drivers admit that they talk on their cell phones while driving and one in four confess that they text while driving.

Students who have participated in TDS state that things they have learned are:

  • Not to have too many people in the car while they are driving.
  • Speed kills.
  • Distractions can be very dangerous.
  • Buckle up that seat belt!

If your state doesn’t have a similar program, check out Teens in the Drivers Seat on the Internet.  It has some very informative stories and ideas.  State Farm Insurance is a partial sponsor of the program.

Teaching our new drivers that driving is a full-time job and to pay attention 100% of the time they are behind the wheel, may be a life-saving lesson.

Source:
Ft Worth Star Telegram
TDS

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized, Weather Protection

LET’S HELP OUR YOUNG ATHLETES KEEP THEIR “COOL”

We have talked about keeping our workers safe from the hazards of doing their jobs outdoors in the heat and humidity, and how to recognize the signs of heat stroke, heat cramps, etc.  But with August just around the corner, indicating it’s time to get ready for football, cross country, and other outdoor sports, we want to focus on our youngsters.

When the temperature is 95° or higher, (and believe me, in Texas, it is!), and the humidity is 75%, this combination slows down the body’s evaporation and sweating doesn’t do its’ job to assist the cooling process.  We have found several good tips that parents and coaches should keep in mind to as their youngsters take the field:gatorade01

1.    Instruct all athletes to pre-hydrate.  Drinking at least 24 ounces of fluid prior to each workout will help.

2.    Allow the athletes to drink 10-12 ounces every 30 minutes of activity.  If they wait until they are thirsty, chances are they are already dehydrated.

3.    Do not allow athletes to drink carbonated drinks or energy drinks.  Keep plenty of water on hand; however, Gatorade has been proven to be better than plain water to replace fluids.

4.    Weigh-ins before and after practice will show how much fluid each individual loses and needs to replace.

5.    Let the players become acclimated to the hot weather.  Remember that younger persons adjust more slowly than adults to hot and humid conditions.

6.    Lighter clothing helps promote heat loss.  Helmets need to be removed periodically, as the body can cool itself more efficiently.  Helmets retain significant amounts of heat.

7.    Heat production is proportional to body weight, so be sure to observe very large or obese players for early signs of heat stress.

8.    Ask athletes if they taking antibiotics, which can cause them to be more susceptible to heat illness.

Good training is very important.  Youngsters should train for the sport rather than expect the sport to get them into shape.  Coaches can help by choosing a conditioning program that is suited for the individual athlete.  Youngsters that enjoy going out for a particular sport should be encouraged by parents and coaches to follow the rules of the game.  Those playing contact sports should have the proper equipment to decrease risks of injury.

One of the most important bits of advice that we can pass on is for parents and coaches to encourage healthy competition, not a “win at all costs” attitude, and let them have     FUN!  In return, our youngsters will enjoy the experience of teamwork and develop a positive self-image that will carry on throughout their lives.

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

IT’S NOT MY FAULT!

From early childhood, it’s always been easier to find someone else to blame when we slip up.

It’s funny how that seems to be built into our personalities, some of us more so than others.

A friend once noted:

“My kids were always innocent until proven guilty.  There was a bad guy somewhere in the picture, but it wasn’t them!  My daughter even blamed a little puppy for following her from school. I am sure she didn’t encourage the puppy at all……………..”

At home or on the job, we all seem to want to place the blame on someone else when things happen.  When there is an accident at work, home or play, the important thing is to not play the “blame game”, but fix the problem.  If you notice someone acting out all the time, they may be taking their problems out on others.  There are persons who feel that the whole world is out to get them.  It’s our responsibility to help them understand that everyone makes mistakes, and together, with teamwork, it’s going to be corrected.

We need to make a commitment to workplace excellence and create a safe, healthy environment.  When you notice someone you work with exhibiting safe behaviors, give them a pat on the back, and maybe others will follow suit.  It’s amazing how far a compliment can go; it’s much better than constant criticism.

Various Safety Posters
Various Safety Posters
Visual aids are always helpful.  We notice posters that encourage good attitudes and safe practices.  One poster I remember from working in a hospital was “Loose Lips Sink Ships”, (a World War II theme that depicted a sinking battleship).  This poster was to remind workers of the current HIPAA law, prohibiting employees from divulging personal patient information without a release from that patient.  I remember that picture from years past, and I bet each one of you can remember some poster at work that stayed in your mind.

If you can “Walk the Safety Walk” and “Talk the Safety Talk” you will spend your time doing that, not blaming the other guy.  And, if for some unforeseen reason, something happens that is your fault, just admit it and go on.  If you are thinking safety, it will only be a minor glitch, and hopefully an easy fix!

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

PLAY IT SAFE IN THEME PARKS

This is the time of year when theme and amusements parks are packed with kids and their parents or grandparents.  While they are anticipating going to magical and fun activities, it’s a good idea to plan how you can make it a safe experience for the whole group.

Here are some tips that should help:

  • If you are going to a large theme park, check a map for the locations of first aid stations.  It’s a big help if you know where to go for assistance, should there be an accident.
  • Carry Benadryl or some type of allergy medication in case of food or other allergies.
  • Accompany small children to the restroom.  They get to a certain age that they think they can go alone, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
  • Be sure you are well-hydrated two to three days before your trip.  Continue drinking more water and less sugary drinks during the park visits.
  • It helps to take short breaks. Don’t push all day long to be sure you see everything.  A rest in the shade, or even a return to your hotel for a while will make the whole group less stressed.
  • Take plenty of sunscreen, hand sanitizer, or wipes.  Wear sunglasses, hats/visors and comfortable shoes.  It is also a good idea to wear socks and running/walking shoes rather than sandals.
  • Dress your kids in brightly colored clothing, so you can easily spot them, should you become separated.  Having just returned from a four-day theme park trip, I noticed several groups were wearing identical T-shirts, which made it easier for them to find each other.
  • Cell phones are a great way for families to communicate with their teenagers who want to do their thing, while moms and dads take the little ones to ride or see shows.
  • If the rides have restrictions, such as height limits, don’t try to put your child on something they are too small for.  If you have health problems such as high blood pressure, pay attention to the warnings posted at the high-speed rides.

Most park attendants are there to ensure their visitors have a safe and fun experience.  If you have questions or need assistance, they will be happy to help you.  These parks have safety policies and procedures; however, if you have had any unsafe experiences, be sure to let them know.

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

DO YOUR PART TO KEEP YOUR WORKPLACE FREE OF DRUGS AND ALCOHOL

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The welfare of everyone at a worksite is threatened when a worker is impaired by abusing drugs or alcohol.  You can play an important part to ensure safety in the workplace by:

  • Knowing the drug-free policies of your workplace.
  • Setting a good example for others.
  • Telling management if you suspect use or impairment from drugs or alcohol that threatens safety and health of coworkers.
  • Seeking help if you or your co-worker(s) are impaired.
  • If you or a co-worker(s) are dealing with these problems, confidential help may be available, often at no cost to employees, through the company’s benefits program.
  • There are many outside services that can help.

These statistics are from a Department of Labor report. See if you recognize any of the signs:

  • One in five workers report that they have had to work harder, redo work or cover for a co-worker or have been put in danger or injured as a result a fellow employee’s drinking.
  • Up to 40 % of industrial fatalities and 47% of industrial injuries can be linked to alcohol consumption and alcoholism.
  • Alcohol and drug abuse has been estimated to cost American businesses roughly 81 billion dollars in lost productivity in just one year—37 billion due to premature death and 44 billion due to illness. Of these combined costs, 86 % are attributed to drinking.
  • Alcoholism is estimated to cause 500 million lost workdays annually.
  • Individuals who are current illicit drug users are more than twice as likely (9.3 %)than those who are not (4.3 %) to have changed employers three or more times the past year. Similarly, individuals who are current heavy alcohol users are more likely (8 %) than those who are not (4.4%) to have changed employers three or more times in the past year.
  • Individuals who are current illicit drug users are also more likely (12.9%)than those who are not (5 %)to have skipped one or more workdays in the past month. Individuals who are current heavy alcohol users are also more likely (11.3%)than those who are not (5.1 %)to have skipped one or more workdays in the past month.
  • Of callers to the National Cocaine Hotline, 75% admit to having used drugs on the job, 64% report that drugs have adversely affected their job performance; 44% say they have sold drugs to fellow employees, and 18% say they have stolen from coworkers to support their drug habit.

If any of this is familiar to you:

  • Do Not Delay or Ignore!  Tell your supervisor immediately.
  • Act to prevent worker from committing unsafe practices.
  • Be willing to risk being wrong. It is better to be safe than sorry when the well-being of all is on the line.

Call: Substance Abuse Treatment Locator, 1-800-662 HELP, or www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov
Drug Free Workplace Alliance\dol.gov

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

HOW SECONDHAND SMOKE AFFECTS US

It is an individual’s choice whether to smoke or not.  However, exposing non-smokers and children to environmental tobacco smoke, (ETS), is a different concern.  ETS are particles emitted from a burning cigarette, pipe, or cigar and smoke exhaled by a smoker.  Did you know that secondhand smoke has been classified as a known human carcinogen by the United States Environmental Protection Agency?  This rating is used only for substances proven to cause cancer in humans.

Non-smokers: The following statistics (in the U.S. alone), from the American Cancer Society, are caused by second-hand smoke:

  • About 3,400 lung cancer deaths in non-smoking adults occur annually.
  • Each year an estimated 46,000 deaths from heart disease in non-smokers who live with smokers.
  • Secondhand smoke causes breathing problems in non-smokers, such as coughing, chest discomfort and reduced lung function.
  • In children under 18 months, there are approximately 150,000 to 300,000 lung infections (pneumonia and bronchitis), resulting in 7,500 to 15,000 hospital stays annually.
  • Asthma attacks in children with asthma range from 200,000 to 1 million each year.

If your workplace doesn’t have a policy that protects non-smokers from exposure to ETS, try to get it to start one.  Either ban smoking indoors or designate a separately ventilated room that nonsmokers do not have to enter while performing their job responsibilities.

If you are a smoker, think about the effect this has on your body, as well as your family or friends.  Small children are unable to breathe fresh air while they are around smoke.  They are trapped while riding in a closed car with someone smoking.  Advice from many smokers is “if you haven’t started smoking – don’t!  It’s expensive and a hard habit to break.”  Think about it.  Everyone has the right to choose to smoke or not, just as in any other habit, but most of the time when they start smoking, they aren’t thinking about how it will play out in their health or the health of others later on.

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

BEFORE YOU MAKE THAT BIG SPLASH

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If you are thinking about buying a new boat, there are many things you should know.

Be sure to check with your state parks and wildlife department for important information  all seaworthy (or lake-worthy) persons should know.

Texas Boater Education teaches:

  • How to choose the right boat for you and your family
  • Docking, anchoring, and maneuvering the trailer
  • Navigation rules and aids
  • Legal requirements for boats
  • Handling accidents and emergencies
  • Weather
  • Basic water safety
  • What to do in case of a fire on board
  • Basics of safety in regard to water sports

Other places that offer boater education are U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Power Squad, trained volunteer instructors, teachers, and game wardens.  Now hear this: it pays to be educated on boating skills and seamanship, as there are many insurers that offer discounts upon successful completion of boater education courses.

Rules of the water apply the same as on the highway: show courtesy to other drivers and have designated drivers for the boat.  Most boaters are willing to help a stranded boater by towing them to the shore if they are experiencing motor problems.  The main thing in boating (in addition to a safe driver) is extending courtesy to swimmers or skiers, and not come too close to them.

It’s the law that persons wear life jackets or PFD’s  (personal flotation devices).  Here’s a brief explanation of the five types:

  • Type I – Floats best, but bulky;
  • Type II – Good for calm inland water where there is a chance of quick rescue;
  • Type III – Same as above, and generally most comfortable for continuous wear.  Type III furnishes more freedom of movement for active water sports;
  • Type IV – Throwable device – can be tossed to person, serves as a back up to PFD, can be used as a seat cushion, but not suitable for rough water manageability;
  • Type V – An inflatable type.

You must know the type of jackets that are required for the particular size boat you choose.

Things to remember:

(1) Wear life jackets – they save lives!

(2) Have that designated driver!

(3) Have a safe boat – it can save your life!

(4) Be sure to take along sunscreen, and

(5) have a first aid kit on your boat.

See if you can say this ten times without tripping up: “You better be a sober boater!”  It pays to play it safe, whether on land or at sea!

Source: Texas Parks and Wildlife

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

A SALUTE TO AMERICA’S FARMERS AND RANCHERS

Our farmers and ranchers are a hard-working society; we owe them our thanks for all they do to feed our country.  At times, we may wish we lived on a farm or ranch, away from city life and its’ congestion, noise, and stress.  But our farm and ranch workers are also exposed to many types of hazards:

  • Machinery and equipment, causing hearing loss; hearing loss is prevalent among farmers who are exposed to loud and continuous noise from equipment, or when hearing protection is ignored.
  • Ultraviolet rays from the sun;
  • Respiratory problems caused by toxic gases and dusts from silos, livestock confinement facilities.
  • Agricultural chemicals, such as pesticides and anhydrous ammonia, which can cause health problems.
  • Safety and health standards are not enforced on family farms, due to special exemptions provided to agriculture. Therefore, as unregulated small businesses, farmers and ranchers are unintentionally exposed to hazards.

Even though they face these and many other hazards, farmers and ranchers have immense pride in what they do.  Many work land that has been in their families for generations; they have consumers depending on them to furnish food and dairy products and animals that depend on them to keep them healthy.  They don’t punch a time clock – their schedule usually goes from sunrise to sunset.  Long ago, windmills were the farmers’ way of pumping water, and they used solar energy long before it became the “green” thing to do.

Recently, there was a news report that a group of dairy farmers were in danger of losing their farms due to the economic situation.  They created a new co-op type of farm, working together to keep things going.  That’s they way our American farmers are, determined and tough. We need to think about their contribution to our way of life and let them know they are very much appreciated.